David Henry Brazier

Ann Arbor, MI

January 1941 - June 2020

June 22.  It was a sad day to see dad leave this earth.  He had his struggles with dementia in the end, but we knew he was still our dad.  We know he was proud of each of us.  We all have something about us that he is responsible for.  Something we in turn share with others because it's who we are.

He was a proud dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa. He was a loving husband to his ever-devoted wife Judy, who was always by his side. Helping him with life's struggles.  And making him laugh each and every day right up until he decided it was time to leave this world.

Here are some things we'll always remember about dad:

Everyone who knew dad for more than 5 minutes likely knew he was a proud member of the USMC.  Semper Fi!  You would think he was a career veteran, but no.  He was a four-year-guy, but ruled the roost like any life-long drill instructor would.  Ten-hut!  We quickly learned not to slam doors, fight with each other too much, and to always-always-always make our beds.

Work ethic was priority number 1.  Dad was a hard worker and he taught us kids the value of a dollar.  Taking us out on weekends when we were so young, collecting newspapers and recycling them.  For money!!  Showing us how to bag them up.  We had the tightest packed bags in the business.  Let's go to Carter's afterwards for a hot chocolate!

Dad also showed us how to build things.  3 generations working together to build that garage on Applewood Street.  Putting together picnic tables and ripping up old carpet in the living room.  Showing us how to use our hands and it's ok to read the instructions.

And the fun games he played with us.  Hold those hands out!  Try not to let him slap the tops!  Oh, was he FAST!  And while the rest of the Michigan kids may have been learning how to play Euchre, dad's game was Rummy, so that's what WE learned to play.

One of dad's passions was food.  And coffee.  Oh, how he enjoyed food and a good cup of coffee.  Always wanting a little bit of this and a little bit of that.  Variety was the name of the game.  Guaranteed, when dad got to those pearly gates after 79 years, he drove around for a while (surely spent some quality time looking at houses), then he backed up his truck (just because he could) and found an empty seat at the table right next to Bob Evans himself.  His favorite seat right by the window.  And they shall eat…

We love you dad,

Dawn and Doug and Shirley and Laura

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Arbor Hospice https://www.arborhospice.org/donate/ or Disabled Veterans https://www.dav.org/

A family memorial service is planned for a later date.